The best gravel rides around Arlington Heights

There are over 10 gravel bike trails around Arlington Heights, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored 14 routes in total, ranging from easy loops to more moderate rides.

The terrain is quite varied, featuring crushed stone, packed dirt, and natural forest paths. You'll find trails winding through woodlands, wetlands, and open meadows, with generally low elevation changes, making for a pleasant ride. The extensive trail networks like the Des Plaines River Trail and those within Deer Grove Forest Preserve offer diverse surfaces.

Yes, there are several easy options perfect for beginners. One popular choice is the Red & Yellow Trail loop — Deer Grove Forest Preserve, which is 9.4 miles long and explores diverse habitats. This route is rated as easy and provides a great introduction to gravel biking in the region.

Many trails meander through scenic natural areas. Along the Des Plaines River Trail, you can spot the Des Plaines River bridge and explore areas like Dam Number 1 Woods. The expansive Ned Brown Forest Preserve (Busse Woods) is known for its woodlands, wetlands, and even a resident elk herd, while Busse Lake — North and Main Pools offers beautiful water views.

Yes, many of the gravel routes in the area are designed as loops, providing a convenient riding experience. For example, the Des Plaines River Trail – Dam Number 1 Woods loop from Des Plaines is a moderate 23.6-mile path that follows the river, and the Red & Yellow Trail loop — Deer Grove Forest Preserve is an easy 9.4-mile option.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 50 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, the extensive network of trails through natural settings like forest preserves and river paths, and the sense of escape from urban environments. The variety in trail surfaces and lengths caters to different skill levels, making it enjoyable for many.

For those seeking a longer ride, the Des Plaines River Trail – Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds loop from Prospect Heights is a moderate 32.6-mile trail that leads through varied landscapes along the Des Plaines River, typically taking over four hours to complete. Another option is the Des Plaines River Trail – Catherine Chevalier Woods loop from Kennicott Grove, a moderate 29.5-mile route.

Yes, many of the forest preserves and trail access points in the Arlington Heights area offer designated parking. For instance, areas like Dam Number 1 Woods, Half Day Forest Preserve, and Deer Grove Forest Preserve have parking facilities, making it convenient to access the gravel trails.

Spring, summer, and fall generally offer the best conditions for gravel biking in Arlington Heights. These seasons provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant natural scenery. While winter riding is possible, trail conditions can vary with snow and ice, so it's advisable to check local conditions before heading out.

Yes, many sections of the gravel trails are suitable for families, especially the easier loops and those within forest preserves like Deer Grove. The generally low elevation changes and varied surfaces provide an engaging experience for riders of different ages and abilities. Always check the specific route details for distance and difficulty to ensure it matches your family's comfort level.

Many of the forest preserves and trails in the Cook County and Lake County Forest Preserves, which encompass the Arlington Heights area, are dog-friendly. Dogs are generally permitted on trails as long as they are kept on a leash. Always check specific preserve rules or trail signage for any restrictions before you go.